Intense gales reaching velocities of up to 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 properties lacking electricity and led authorities to halt in excess of 100 aircraft departures, as reported by local media.
The gales are influencing the complete southern region and southern parts of the northern region, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have announced uncommon red wind warnings - the top caution category - in central regions including Wellington and Canterbury.
Residents have been advised to avoid going outside, avoid travel, and prepare for more power and communication outages.
Extensive Destruction and Crisis Response
The electricity loss seems to be impacting residences mostly in the South Island, although officials state that the electricity supply was being gradually reinstated.
Local media have reported that in certain areas structures have suffered roof damage, whereas utility poles and vegetation have been knocked down by the gusts.
Within the capital, a individual was fatally injured after being hit by a wooden fragment at a well-known hiking path on earlier this week.
Meanwhile in Wellington, a individual was blown onto approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a moment that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the metropolis have been suspended due to the weather, and some roads and libraries are shut down.
At the same time authorities in Canterbury have announced a emergency situation, to facilitate recovery activities.
Labor Protests Alongside Extreme Conditions
These intense gusts on today come as numerous of teachers, doctors and other public workers are engaged in what has been termed a "major walkout", calling for better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has forced them to modify certain arrangements, with some outdoor rallies moved indoors or abandoned.
Comparable winds are also sweeping the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the country's outback.
Officials have announced fire bans for concern about wildfires.
